Manchester's movers and shakers are rocked by the claim across 22 pages of "style bible" Tatler, which tells how our neighbouring city has become one of the most stylish places in Europe.

Most Mancunians would recognise that Liverpool as a resurgent city and maybe a worthy candidate to be European City of Culture.

And Tatler fashion editor Isabella Blow says Liverpool is "the jewel of the North" - but perhaps she should take a look about 30 miles east, where it's VERY cool indeed!

Liverpool has Mr and Mrs Michael Owen...but Manchester has Posh and Becks.

Liverpool has some fine old architecture...but Manchester and Salford have 21st century Urbis and the Lowry.

And Liverpool has Anfield and Goodison Park, but we have mighty Old Trafford and the new City of Manchester stadium.

Atomic Kitten are also a hit, although girl bands are thick on the ground and nowhere near as hip as Oasis, while Brookside has lost its prime-time slot and Corrie is still queen of the ratings.

And the coolest radio, like Jazz FM and Century, is stationed here - and is not too proud to broadcast to Merseyside.

With top names like Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and exclusive hairdresser Nicky Clarke moving here to take advantage of Mancunians' stylish tastes, Tatler should take note.

Visitors

Nearby attractions like the award-winning Lowry arts centre, the five-star Lowry hotel and the Imperial War Museum North have attracted millions of visitors.

And last year's Commonwealth Games was hailed as the most successful ever and saw the world's attention focus on the city. Coronation Street star Sally Lindsay, who plays Shelley Unwin, told us: "It's great to see they're finally recognising northern cities, but let's not overlook Manchester.

"Maybe they should devote the next edition to Manchester and all it has to offer."

DJ Mike Sweeney, who worked on the city's Piccadilly FM for 18 years before moving to London's Capital Gold, added: "I come home every weekend and because of that, I keep seeing it improve in leaps and bounds.

"Every time I see the place it's better - it must be one of the trendiest cities in Europe now.

"Manchester amazes me and I'd certainly rather have a day out shopping here than in London. Liverpool might have produced the Beatles, but the place isn't a patch on Manchester."

Manchester also has one of the largest student populations in Europe, with two of Britain's most popular universities and more than 80,000 youngsters who have flocked here to sample the vibrant nightlife.

Manchester Metropolitan vice chancellor Alexandra Burnslem explained: "Manchester has been the first choice for students for a number of years.

"The attractions are obvious - excellent universities and an exciting social and cultural mix, as well as great employment opportunities."